All storm warnings and watches have been cancelled in Arlington, but more than a thousand Dominion customers are without power.
A line of storms with strong, gusty winds made a mad dash across the county this afternoon, downing some trees and utility lines but not packing quite the punch that many feared.
(Updated at 3:40 p.m.) The National Weather Service has issued a Severe Thunderstorm Warning for Arlington and the rest of the metro area until 4:30 p.m. This is the same system that has prompted tornado warnings in nearby counties. From NWS:
.DAY ONE…TODAY AND TONIGHT
Update at 8:55 a.m. — There is a ground stop for flights arriving at Reagan National Airport due to the weather. Check with your airline for the status on any outgoing flights.
The National Weather Service has put Arlington and the rest of the metro area under a Severe Thunderstorm Watch until 11:00 a.m. That’s in addition to the Flash Flood watch that went into effect at midnight and will last until 8:00 p.m.
(Updated at 11:05 p.m.) All lanes of Route 110 have reopened after being closed for more than an hour due to high standing water near the Memorial Bridge underpass.
Four vehicles were reported to be stranded as a result of the high water, which was as deep as two feet. Six people were rescued from their vehicles by firefighters, who managed to drive their fire engine up to the stranded vehicles. All occupants are safe and accounted for.
A Tornado Watch has been issued for Arlington and the surrounding region.
The National Weather Service says weather conditions are conducive to the formation of tornadoes. The watch is in effect until 10:00 p.m.
The storm has been dumping rain on the region all day, and even heavier rains and stronger wind gusts are expected during the evening commute.
Tonight’s outdoor showing of “Risky Business” in Rosslyn has been cancelled due to the weather. Meanwhile, the soaking rains and wind might be responsible for knocking down power lines along N. Pershing Drive in the Ashton Heights area. Pershing is currently closed between Lincoln and Monroe Streets while police and firefighters wait for Dominion Power crews to repair the lines.
The National Weather Service has issued a Flash Flood Watch for Arlington and the entire D.C. metro area, beginning Friday morning. Heavy rains are expected locally as a result of Tropical Storm Andrea, possibly with two to four inches of accumulation. The watch lasts through Friday evening.
From the National Weather Service:
An otherwise cool May has given way to the usual D.C. summer combination of temperatures in the 90s and uncomfortable humidity.
Update at 7:25 p.m. — The National Weather Service has also issued a Flash Flood Warning.
THE NATIONAL WEATHER SERVICE IN STERLING VIRGINIA HAS ISSUED A
Arlington County and the surrounding area is currently under a Severe Thunderstorm Warning.
From the National Weather Service:
A messy evening commute is possible, with rain and strong storms heading toward Arlington.
The National Weather Service warns that the storms may include heavy rain and hail.
(Updated at 3:05 p.m.) The National Weather Service has issued a tornado watch for Arlington and the entire metro area. The watch will be in effect until 10:00 p.m. From NWS:
PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS…
